Sepsis can cause changes of nerve, sarcolemma, neuromuscular junction (NMJ) and excitation-contraction coupling for promoting the acquired muscle weakness. Acquired weakness of muscles can prolong the time of mechanical ventilation and hospital stay of patients. It is an independent risk factor leading to the increase of mortality in critically ill patients and seriously affects the patients′ quality of life. In this paper, the research progress of the mechanism of sepsis-induced acquired weakness in recent years is reviewed so as to provide theoretical basis for clinical work. Although the mechanism of sepsis-induced acquired weakness is not fully understood at present，further research will lay a solid theoretical foundation for clinical diagnosis, treatment and anesthesia.